Estonian Military Allowed To Sink Enemy Ships

• 15.04.2025, 7:51

The Defence Forces Organisation Act has been amended.

Estonian President Alar Karis has proclaimed a law amending the law on the organisation of the Defence Forces and the law on the economic zone, the purpose of which is to strengthen security in the maritime area of the state.

This is reported by Postimees.

The law clarifies the tasks of the Defence Forces, as well as the use of direct coercion and military force. It gives the Defence Forces flexibility to act at sea, so that they can quickly respond to threats from the sea.

According to the amendments, the Defence Forces have the right to use force on Estonian maritime territory in the event of threats directed against infrastructure ensuring the continuity of vital services, as well as against defence facilities, ports or other structures and equipment.

‘The amendments are aimed at ensuring better control and protection of Estonia's maritime border, especially in the context of increased threats in the Baltic region,’ the explanatory memorandum to the bill reads.

Estonian Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur said that the new measures will enable the Defence Forces to respond promptly to potential threats and ensure the security of maritime borders.

He emphasised that the use of force would be considered as a last resort and would be carried out in strict compliance with international law.